_Oreoscoptes_, BAIRD, Birds N. Am. 1858, 346. (Type _Orpheus
montanus_, TOWNS.)
_Oreoscoptes_, BAIRD, Rev. Am. Birds, 42.
[Line drawing: _Oreoscoptes montanus._
8129]
SP. CHAR. Bill shorter than the head, without distinct notch. Bristles
prominent, their tips reaching beyond the nostrils. Wings pointed,
equal to, or a little longer than the tail. First quill not half the
second, about two fifths the longest; third, fourth, and fifth quills
equal and longest; second between sixth and seventh. Tail but slightly
graduated; the feathers narrow. Tarsus longer than middle toe and claw
by an additional claw; scutellæ distinct anteriorly.
Of this genus only one species is at present known. This belongs to
the Middle and Western provinces of the United States and extends from
the Pacific coast eastward to Fort Laramie and the Black Hills (in
winter to San Antonio, Texas); south to Fort Yuma and Cape St. Lucas.
Oreoscoptes montanus, BAIRD.